Words alone can not express my sadness and sorrow at the passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II. On Thursday afternoon, I stopped work and watched the TV in disbelief as events unfolded until we ultimately heard the news that we had been dreading.
News that at the time seemed unbelievable, particularly as she was still carrying out her duties just two days prior, and, even now, it is not really sinking in. As with most people in this country, she was the only monarch that I had ever known and I somehow never expected this day to happen.
Over the last few days, we have heard and read many tributes and stories which have given a greater insight into just what a magnificent lady she was. Throughout her life, she served this country and the Commonwealth with great dedication and professionalism whilst at the same time raising her own family.
It is fair to say, that like many, I took her for granted because she was always there, always doing her duty with a smile on her face. But, now that she has gone, I feel privileged to have lived under the reign of HM Queen Elizabeth II, she was a true Queen of the people and I will be eternally grateful for all that she has done for me and thousands of others.
In closing, my thoughts and prayers are with her family at this very difficult time and as a mark of respect during this period of mourning, we will be refraining from actively promoting our business by emails and on social media. Additionally, we shall be closed on the day of the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, Monday 19th September.